Toronto FC sign Brazilian striker Maicon Santos

Toronto FC announced Friday that they have signed forward Maicon Santos. Santos was released earlier this week by Chivas USA. As per team and league rules financial details were not released.

“We are delighted to welcome Maicon on board,” said manager, director of soccer Mo Johnston. “Preki knows this player inside and out, and speaks very highly of him both on and off the field. He’s a target man, strong, and packs a very good shot. We are very excited to get him in the lineup.”

Santos, 26, joined MLS on August 21, 2009 after he was loaned out by his Brazilian club Bonsucesson Futebol Clube of Brazil. He made his debut with the club the following day assisting on Sasha Kljestan’s second goal in a 2-0 win over Toronto FC. He played in eight games in 2009, seven as a starter and finished that season with a goal, and an assist. The forward also scored a goal in the first leg of the western conference semi-final of the 2009 MLS Cup Playoffs in a 2-2 draw with the L.A. Galaxy.

Prior to joining MLS Santos has played professionally in Brazil, Libya, and Israel. He will be available for selection for Saturday’s game against the Colorado Rapids in a noon ET kick-off at BMO Field.